This verse, Joshua 10:9, is part of the story of Joshua's battle against the five Amorite kings who had allied to attack the city of Gibeon. Let's break it down:
"Joshua therefore came to them suddenly": This indicates that Joshua and his army launched a surprise attack on the Amorite coalition. The Amorite kings were expecting to besiege Gibeon, not to be attacked by the Israelite army.
"He marched from Gilgal all night": This explains how Joshua achieved the surprise. Gilgal was the Israelite camp (a base of operations) at the time. The verse emphasizes the speed and determination of Joshua's army. Marching "all night" is a significant feat of endurance. It suggests they covered considerable distance without rest to reach the Amorite forces quickly.
In short, the verse means:
Joshua launched a surprise attack on the Amorite kings by marching his army all night from Gilgal to Gibeon, catching them unprepared. This swift and unexpected movement was a key factor in Joshua's victory.
Contextual Significance:
Divine Assistance: The rapid march and surprise attack are often seen as evidence of God's intervention on behalf of Israel. The Bible later details how God confused the Amorites and sent hailstones upon them, further aiding the Israelite victory.
Military Strategy: This passage highlights Joshua's strategic acumen. He recognized the threat to Gibeon, acted decisively, and used speed and surprise to his advantage.
Faith and Obedience: Joshua's actions also reflect his faith in God and his obedience to God's command to protect Gibeon (as Gibeon had made a covenant with Israel).
Therefore, the verse is not just a statement of fact but also a demonstration of Joshua's leadership, military skill, and faith, all while illustrating God's involvement in the battles of Israel.
This verse, Joshua 10:9, is part of the story of Joshua's battle against the five Amorite kings who had allied to attack the city of Gibeon. Let's break it down:
"Joshua therefore came to them suddenly": This indicates that Joshua and his army launched a surprise attack on the Amorite coalition. The Amorite kings were expecting to besiege Gibeon, not to be attacked by the Israelite army.
"He marched from Gilgal all night": This explains how Joshua achieved the surprise. Gilgal was the Israelite camp (a base of operations) at the time. The verse emphasizes the speed and determination of Joshua's army. Marching "all night" is a significant feat of endurance. It suggests they covered considerable distance without rest to reach the Amorite forces quickly.
In short, the verse means:
Joshua launched a surprise attack on the Amorite kings by marching his army all night from Gilgal to Gibeon, catching them unprepared. This swift and unexpected movement was a key factor in Joshua's victory.
Contextual Significance:
Divine Assistance: The rapid march and surprise attack are often seen as evidence of God's intervention on behalf of Israel. The Bible later details how God confused the Amorites and sent hailstones upon them, further aiding the Israelite victory.
Military Strategy: This passage highlights Joshua's strategic acumen. He recognized the threat to Gibeon, acted decisively, and used speed and surprise to his advantage.
Faith and Obedience: Joshua's actions also reflect his faith in God and his obedience to God's command to protect Gibeon (as Gibeon had made a covenant with Israel).
Therefore, the verse is not just a statement of fact but also a demonstration of Joshua's leadership, military skill, and faith, all while illustrating God's involvement in the battles of Israel.